I have always heard that a muzzle brake will cause permanent hearing loss even with hearing protection. I can't believe this is ultimately true, or certainly there wouldn't be so many people using them.
I saw something recently (can't remember where now) that was a muzzle brake/silencer and knowing nothing about muzzle brakes other than what I have read..
My question is this: Is there a such thing (or can it be built) as an "ear-safe" muzzle break. Not a silencer, just not a 'loudener'. I would like to get into some of the bigger calibers, but not at the expense of my ears.
Is there a such thing (or can it be built) as an "ear-safe" muzzle break. Not a silencer, just not a 'loudener'.
Yes there is, it is called a suppressor. Check your local laws. Any brake that did any significant sound suppression would probably be classified as a suppressor by the BATF.
I have been shooting large braked rifles for over 15 years, and have suffered zero hearing loss. I use Pro Ears dimension 2 and wear ear plugs underneath them if I am going to shoot a lot.
The best brakes work on an inertia principle, by redirecting gas flow. The speed of the gas is supersonic, about 4000 to 5000 fps initially. I direct the ports on my brake to create turbulence once outside the brake, but they are still much louder to the shooter than a straight barrel.
S1, I have been doing some research into muzzlebrakes. I would like to use one on my 300 RUM but all my experiences with them to date have been less than enjoyable. First bad experience was dust blowup, when prone, and noise. I have found the OPS inc. brake to be the quietest (to the shooter) of the commercially made ones, don't know about the dust blow up yet on the OPS. Can you give a comparison to the ones you build and a recommendation?
I think the Ops Inc brake does a decent job on recoil reduction and is not as bad as some on the shooter. Its dust signature is typical for that style, a bit more blow up than our Counter torque brake, and no where near the control for follow up shots off a bipod prone.
It is not a bad low cost option, neither is the New Holland. The brakes I make fit the barrel better and are specifically designed for the cartridge/bullet/gun weight/twist rate combination of the shooter. More of a high end product, but better weapon control, less torque, and quicker follow up shots. Plus if you have a working tactical rifle, we can add glass breaking teeth, and the three lug quick connect feature to the brake for your suppressor.
I have shot several of S1's brakes over the years and all have done just what they are supposed to do reduce recoil and torque. The added plus is they are not too noisy and don't kick up a cloud of dust. I have one on my Stoner in the 3 lug configuration with the glass breaker and he is currently building me one out of Titanium for my 30 Wolf. It comes down to what you want to spend and what you are going to do with it. If you have to stake your life on it or you are going on the hunt of a lifetime then i wouldn't hesitate to spend the extra fundage, but if you seldom use your rifle or can get by without a fast follow up shot then you might get by with an off the shelf unit.
If you prepay for the .223 brake (no teeth), 260.00, I will make it in the next 3 weeks. When the brake is done, you can send me your upper, and I will turn it around in less than 3 days.
